The head coach of “Lokomotiv”, Mirko Jeličić, after the match against “Dinamo” (2:1) in the 7th round of the Super League, shared his thoughts about the game and answered the questions in detail.
— Temurxoja Abduholiqov, when he played for “Bunyodkor” last year, also scored two goals in Samarkand. Did you take that into account as well?
— He is currently in good physical condition. I usually do not follow such statistics. Temurxoja is an experienced striker and knows what to do in such situations. Today as well, in a high-pressure match, he managed to show himself. The fact that he is playing at such a pace even at this age deserves respect.
— What did the “Lokomotiv” players demand regarding “Dinamo’s” goal? Did they really ask for fair play?
— Even players sitting on the bench must follow fair play. In such situations, the referee should have stopped the game. At that moment, any player would have stopped.
— What weak points of “Dinamo” did you notice?
— The team plays an aggressive attacking game. We should have used that to our advantage. When a team goes on the attack, some areas are left open, and that can be exploited. Playing against a team that only defends is always difficult. But if the opponent wants to play attacking football, then it is possible to play football with them.
— So is it easier to play against such teams?
— You could say yes. However, there were many skilled players in the opponent’s squad, and it was not easy to stand against them. They simply were not able to maintain the match tempo. But the fact that they are building attacking football is very good. It is also good for us, because spaces open up.
— After the score became 2:0, did you deliberately focus on defense, or did “Dinamo” increase their attacking aggression?
— Both. In such moments, teams usually focus more on defense and try to hold the result. But it is not always intentional; the pressure simply increases. We took advantage of the fact that “Dinamo” played attacking football. There were big gaps in their defensive line. In the second half we also had good chances, but we did not use them. In fact, we planned to maximize those opportunities. Overall, the game was played under the opponent’s pressure.
— Are you satisfied with the defensive performance?
— Yes, I am satisfied. There are mistakes, and they must be analyzed. Before the match, we aimed to play organized positional defense.
— Today “Loko” mainly played on counterattacks. Was it planned to play as the second number?
— We build our own game and do not look at the opponent’s style. This can be called a more open style of football. The players also like this style. In such football, we also get open spaces. I am ready for my team to play like this.
— You worked for a long time as a fitness coach. How much does the physical condition of your players meet your requirements?
— Over the years, it is important how you work with both young and older players. Through this you learn how to work with them. In Uzbekistan, there are still few specialists who fully understand this field. The work is still the same. Over the years players change, but what you put in is what you get out, — said Jeličić, as quoted by the club press service of the “railwaymen”.
